Canadian Air Transport Security Authority

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The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) (French:Administration canadienne de la sûreté du transport aérien) is a Canadian Crown corporation responsible for the security of air traffic within Canada. CATSA reports to Parliament through the Minister of Transport.

CATSA was officially formed January 1, 2003 Through The Canadian Department Of Transport following the September 11 terrorist attacks. The Canadian Government took control of Airport Screeners who up until January 1, 2003 were the responsibility of the Airlines.

CATSA is a Crown Corporation, and therefore must adhere to certain Federal laws like the Official Languages Act which insures that both English and French languages are made available to the passengers.

CATSA contracts screening services to private security companies. One of the largest is Aeroguard Group based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. CATSA is managed by Jacques Duchesneau, C.M., President and CEO. CATSA's Board Of Directors Chairman is Former Canadian Forces General Maurice Baril. CATSA's Directive is to provide the best screening services in the world and maintain a high level of customer service. The official mission statement is to protect the public by securing critical elements of the air transportation system as assigned by the government.

CATSA is given responsibility for air traffic security by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority Act, passed by Parliament in 2002.


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Airport security following September 11, 2001 has been greatly improved. This also had a ripple effect on all the worlds international hubs.